At a recent Stedfast meeting, a speaker made an observation that stayed with me: Most youth ministries are led almost entirely by young adults — but Boys’ Brigade groups are led by men and women across every generation.
As I reflected on our BBQLD leaders, I realised just how unique and powerful that is. In Queensland alone, our leaders range from 18 to 80 (and perhaps even a little beyond). That breadth of age brings extraordinary depth to our groups — depth you simply cannot manufacture.
A Leadership Tapestry Unlike Any Other
Across our Companies, you’ll find leaders who bring strength in every aspect of BB:
- Physical — active games, camps, expeditions, and hands‑on skills
- Spiritual — mentoring boys in faith, prayer, and Christian character
- Mind & Body — teaching resilience, problem‑solving, and healthy habits
- Creative — music, craft, imagination, and expression
You’ll find leaders who can walk boys through every stage of life — from childhood challenges to teenage transitions and early adulthood. Leaders with decades of wisdom. Leaders with fresh energy. Leaders who boys can look up to as father, uncle, grandfather, brother, or trusted mentor.
The Gift of Female Leadership in Anchor and Juniors
And when we look at our Anchor and Junior sections, our female leaders bring their own irreplaceable strengths. Younger boys connect deeply with mother, grandmother, and sister‑like figures. They still need nurturing, gentleness, and care woven into their BB experience.
As a BB leader myself, I know the weekly challenge of shaping a boy‑centred program that meets them where they are. And I also know how vital it is for boys to have male leaders in their world — men who model godly character, consistency, and courage.
But the truth is this: Every leader, male or female, young or old, brings something essential.
You Are Not Too Young. You Are Not Too Old.
The idea that someone is “too young” or “too old” to be a BB leader simply doesn’t hold up. Whether you are 18 or 80, you carry experiences, skills, stories, and strengths that boys desperately need.
Your involvement — whether as a registered leader or a quiet helper who simply shows up and is present — is invaluable. Your presence shapes culture. Your consistency builds trust. Your willingness to serve becomes part of a boy’s story.
Supporting the BB ministry is life‑changing for the boys in your church and community. But here’s the part we often forget: It’s life‑changing for you as well.
When generations lead together, boys flourish. And so do leaders.
by Cathy Ballantine
What Is the Stedfast Association?
The Stedfast Association is the fellowship for past and present members of The Boys’ Brigade — Old Boys, former leaders, current leaders, and supporters. It exists to keep people connected, strengthen lifelong friendships, and continue supporting the BB ministry. In Queensland, Stedfast members meet regularly, encourage local Companies, and help carry the Brigade’s mission forward across generations.
Join the Stedfast Mailing list – stedfast@bbqld.brigadeaustralia.org